Bandit Kingpin Turji Flees as Troops Eliminate Deputy and Key Allies

In a major military offensive, notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has fled his stronghold in the North-West, relocating to the Maradun local government area (LGA) of Zamfara State amidst a relentless assault by forces from Operation Fansan Yamma.

During the operation, the Nigerian military successfully eliminated Turji’s deputy, Aminu Kanawa, in a targeted strike on high ground in Fakai. Kanawa had been notorious for orchestrating violent banditry attacks across various regions, including Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni LGAs in Zamfara and Sokoto States. His death is seen as a major blow to Turji’s criminal network.

Alongside Kanawa, the military also neutralised other key figures in Turji’s gang, including his younger brother, Dosso, and a close associate, Danbokolo. The operation continued with heavy engagement at Gebe, in Isa LGA of Sokoto State, where numerous fleeing bandits were incapacitated. Among the key commanders eliminated were Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna, known locally as ‘Kahon-Saniya-yafi-Bahaushe’.

Local intelligence has since indicated that Turji’s remaining loyalists have been spotted moving through regions such as Galadi, Damaga, Rudunu, and Danbenchi on motorcycles, reportedly transporting wounded gang members. These bandits are believed to be heading towards Garsa/Kadanya, located in the Bayan Ruwa axis—a region that has become a strategic corridor for criminal groups.

The Bayan Ruwa area, which has been a hotspot for bandit activity, was recently targeted by Nigerian Air Force airstrikes in August 2024, aimed at destroying bandit hideouts. Further intelligence suggests that some of Turji’s remaining fighters may have sought refuge in Garsa/Kadanya, allegedly under the protection of Jummo Smally, a former rival bandit leader who has now reportedly formed an alliance with Turji. The motivations behind this new coalition remain unclear, raising concerns about possible future criminal activity in the area.

A defence intelligence source confirmed Turji’s retreat to Maradun and the successful elimination of numerous bandits. The source highlighted that Nigerian forces were closely monitoring the situation, tracking the movements of the fugitive bandits and their remaining strongholds. Authorities are carefully coordinating future strikes to minimize collateral damage, especially as Turji and his men are believed to be traveling with vulnerable groups, such as women, children, and possibly kidnapped victims.

“Yes, Turji and some of his key lieutenants have evaded our bombardment,” the source said. “We have observed their movements, often accompanied by vulnerable individuals. We are taking extra precautions to identify and separate these groups from the bandits to avoid civilian casualties.”

Despite the challenges, the intelligence official assured the public that the military’s efforts would eventually bring an end to the reign of terror instigated by Turji and his network. “Their days are numbered. They no longer have a safe haven, and we are determined to restore peace and security to these communities,” the official concluded.

The ongoing military campaign underscores Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to dismantling the banditry networks that have plagued the North-West, ensuring the safety and stability of affected regions.